Costume Designer + Wardrobe Coordinator
Seasonal Position

POSITION OVERVIEW
Charlottesville Opera seeks a New York City-based Costume Designer + Wardrobe Coordinator to oversee the design, acquisition, and management of costumes for our fall opera. This role combines artistic costume design with wardrobe coordination and organization throughout the rehearsal and performance process.

The Costume Designer + Wardrobe Coordinator will collaborate closely with the stage director, production management, and other designers to develop costumes that support the artistic vision of each production while maintaining practical execution within schedule and budget.

PRODUCTIONS
Embedded +ndash; A one act opera set in modern day featuring 6 singers with approximately one costume each.

The Tell Tale Cell Phone +ndash; A ten-minute opera featuring 4 singers set in present day with approximately one costume each.

DATES + SCHEDULE
Staging Rehearsals - April 14-21, 2026 - New York City, NY

Technical Rehearsals - April 24-30, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA

Performance 1 - May 1, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA

Performance 2 - May 2, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA

Strike - May 2-3, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA

COMPENSATION
$1,000-$1,500, depending on experience.

TRAVEL + HOUSING
Housing provided in Charlottesville, VA (homestay or shared housing, private bedroom).

Travel reimbursement up to $500 (with receipts).

We will ensure the housing is either within walking distance of the rehearsal and performance venues or provide transportation while you are in town.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Design costumes for the production in collaboration with the Stage Director and Production Team

Source, purchase, or rent costume pieces as needed to realize the design

Schedule costume fittings with performers during the rehearsal process

Complete alterations, construction, and finishing of costume pieces as required

Track and maintain costume inventory, paperwork, and organization throughout the production

Prepare and maintain costume plots, dressing lists, and quick-change information as needed.

Coordinate wardrobe needs for rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances

Supervise costume maintenance including laundry, repairs, and preset organization

Ensure all costumes are properly returned, stored, or shipped following the production

IDEAL EXPERIENCE

Minimum of two years of experience designing costumes for opera or similarly large-scale vocal productions.

Strong understanding of the movement, vocal, and quick-change needs specific to opera performance.

Experience designing and fitting costumes for performers of diverse body types.

Ability to source, adapt, and construct costumes within a production schedule and budget

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage wardrobe coordination throughout rehearsals and performances

Comfortable collaborating with directors, performers, and production staff in a fast-paced rehearsal environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or climb for extended periods

Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry materials up to 50 pounds independently

Ability to perform repetitive motions and manual tasks

Comfortable working in shop, stage, and rehearsal environments

Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment when required

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Charlottesville Opera is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful working environment and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.